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Career Academies: A 40-Year Proven Model for Improving College and Career Readiness. November 4, 2009. 3 Key Elements of Career Academies. A smaller learning community comprised of a group of students that take classes together, taught by an interdisciplinary team;
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Career Academies: A 40-Year Proven Model for Improving College and Career Readiness November 4, 2009
3 Key Elements of Career Academies • A smaller learning community comprised of a group of students that take classes together, taught by an interdisciplinary team; • College prep curriculum based on a career theme that helps students see relationships between academics and their application; • Partnerships with employers, the community, and colleges, providing opportunities for internships and adult mentors.
Scope • Approximately 60% of schools that received an SLC grant in years 2000-2004 used the funds for a career academy. (USED) • 4,800 high schools reported having at least one career academy in 2004. (NCES/SSS) • A reasonable estimate is that there are now about 1 million students in career academies nationwide.
Research – Education Outcomes • Positive impacts on academic outcomes including attendance, earned credits, graduation rates, and college attendance rates. (various studies) • In one study, the academies doubled the rate at which high-risk students completed a core academic curriculum raising the completion rate to 32 percent from 16 percent for the control group. (MDRC)
Research – Labor Market Outcomes • Eight years after expected high school graduation, participation in a career academy increased post-high school employment rates and earnings without reducing the chances of going to college or completing a postsecondary credential. (MDRC) • Income increased by an average of $132 per month in years 1-4 after expected high school graduation and $216 per month in years 5-8.
National Standards of Practice • Defined Mission & Goals • Academy Structure • Host District and High School • Faculty and Staff • Professional Development • Governance and Leadership • Curriculum and Instruction • Employer, Higher Education, and Community Involvement • Student Assessment • Cycle of Improvement
Recommendations • Recognize career academies as a key reform strategy for college and career readiness • Increase funding and resources • Build the capacity of the system and of educators • Improve quality